Let the food times roll.

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With Mardi Gras right around the corner, you may be trying to find ways to enhance your “Laissez les bons temps rouler” spirit. Let the good times roll Louisiana-style with these local delicacies.

1. King Cake

Photo by Samantha Sitt

When it comes to choosing a cake, skip the bland, factory-made kind from the supermarket and and opt for one made in a local bakery. If you don’t live in New Orleans but still crave King Cakes, many bakeries, such as Haydel’s, provide international and domestic shipping. That way, if you’re unable to experience Mardi Gras, Mardi Gras can come to you.

2. Beignets

Photo courtesy of flickr.com

Locals and tourists alike have obsessed over these sweet treats for decades. Between the lightly-fried outside, warm and doughy inside, and mounds of powdered sugar on top, beignets have become the ultimate New Orleans dessert snack. Café du Monde Beignet mix is availableonlineor in stores around the city.

3. Tabasco

Photo by Samantha Sitt

No kitchen in New Orleans is complete without a little heat from Louisiana’s own Tabascosauce. Curious about the roots of this classic condiment? Take a day trip to Avery Islandto see how and where one of America’s favorite hot sauces is made while you’re surrounded by scenic jungle gardens and marshes.

4. Pralines

Photo courtesy of John-Bryan Hopkins

Those with an eternal sweet tooth are all too familiar with the delicious crunch of a praline. Many people don’t know that this treat was born right here in New Orleans. This creamy, nutty confection pairs with just about everything–coffee, ice cream, popcorn, and more. When it comes to southern desserts, there’s nothing sweeter.

5. Abita

Photo by Samantha Sitt

A city notorious for its wild and celebratory atmosphere, New Orleans has given rise to countless essential boozy drinks. Abita, for example, is a beloved beer made right outside of New Orleans. Underage? Abita makes a thirst-quenching root beer using Louisiana cane sugar, so anyone can enjoy the delicious taste of this Louisiana libation.

6. Zapp’s Chips

Photo by Samantha Sitt

If you decide to try only one of the items on this list, make it Zapp’s Kettle Style potato chips. These chips, with their vast flavor selection and colorful packaging, embody the eccentricity of Louisiana. While some people swear by Zapp’s Spicy Cajun Crawtator, their Sweet Creole Onion blows every other onion chip out of the water. If you’re among the indecisive bunch, opt for the mixed 8-flavor box to get a taste of each unique flavor.

For more local New Orleans snacks and treats, check out these articles: